Share
In most Indian homes, food is how we show care. So when it comes to our pets, it’s only natural that we want to feed them well. Whether you’re dealing with a fussy eater, looking to give your dog a break from processed food, or simply need a last-minute meal option when the kibble runs out, homemade meals can be a great solution.
But the key here is balance. Dogs need a mix of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and fibre. Too much salt, spice, onion, garlic, or even excessive ghee, things we often use in our own food, can be harmful to them. This guide focuses on simple, wholesome, and safe homemade meal ideas with ingredients commonly found in Indian kitchens.
1. Khichdi For Canines
If your dog’s been a little under the weather, maybe recovering from a vet visit or dealing with a slightly upset tummy - a plain, unseasoned khichdi-style meal is often just what they need. Lightly cooked rice and moong dal, with a soft vegetable like pumpkin or lauki, is easy to digest and calming for their system.
A few drops of ghee or cold-pressed coconut oil can be added once it cools, to give a healthy fat boost. Skip all the usual seasonings (no salt, turmeric, or tadka) and serve it warm, not hot. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a reset, for their body and your peace of mind.
2. Egg Bhurji – Dog Edition
When you’re short on time and your dog needs a hearty, protein-packed meal, eggs come to the rescue. A simple egg scramble, with no salt or spices, can be made even better with a handful of grated carrots, chopped spinach, or a spoon of leftover boiled rice or oats.
It’s a great meal for active dogs and can be adjusted based on their appetite. The key is to cook the eggs through, avoid onion or garlic, and let it cool before serving. Think of it as their version of anda bhurji, minus the masala, but just as satisfying.
3. Curd Rice With A Twist
During peak summer, dogs (like their hooman friends) can get sluggish or overheated. On such days, a bowl of cool, comforting curd and rice can help them stay hydrated and relaxed. Use plain, homemade curd and mix it with well-cooked, cooled rice.
To add a little crunch and fibre, you could grate in a small piece of cucumber or beetroot. No chillies, salt, or tempering, just clean, hydrating nourishment. It’s especially helpful if your dog has been a little low on appetite or energy.
If your dog has dairy sensitivities, swap out the curd with a small spoonful of plain pumpkin purée or even some diluted chicken broth.
4. Chicken Broth Bowl
If your dog thrives on non-veg meals, there’s nothing more nourishing than a simple chicken broth-style bowl. Use whatever you have on hand, preferably a piece of boneless chicken or even a leg (as long as you remove all bones after cooking).
Boil the meat along with a handful of rice or oats and a soft vegetable like carrot or spinach. Simmer until it’s tender and the broth is rich. Once cooled, shred the meat thoroughly, mix it all together, and serve with a drizzle of flaxseed or coconut oil.
This meal is ideal for days when your dog needs an extra protein boost or after a long walk or active play session. It’s deeply hydrating, satisfying, and full of clean energy.
Caution: Never feed cooked bones. Ensure chicken is thoroughly shredded and free of fragments.
Pantry Essentials For Pet Parents
Safe Pantry Staples:
- Rice, oats, yellow moong dal, carrots, cucumber, pumpkin, sweet potato, spinach, curd, bananas, apples (without seeds), eggs, and boneless chicken.
Avoid at All Costs:
- Onion, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, sugar, salt, masala, xylitol, and all fried or processed foods.
Pro Tip: Transition slowly if your dog is used to packaged food. Mix small portions of homemade meals with regular food to let the digestive system adjust.
Final Thoughts
Feeding your dog healthy meals doesn’t require special ingredients or a pet nutrition course. Often, your kitchen already holds everything you need to prepare something comforting, healing, and wholesome. Think of these recipes not as elaborate meals, but as gestures of care, rooted in the same Indian tradition that values feeding loved ones well.
These quick meals aren’t meant to fully replace a long-term, balanced diet as advised by your vet, but they’re great options for supplementing your dog’s food, breaking the monotony, or handling last-minute situations when you’re out of kibble.
At the end of the day, your dog doesn’t need gourmet plating, just clean food made with love. And when both of you are sitting down with your bowls of khichdi, broth, or curd rice, the shared comfort might just say more than words ever could.
